Sunday, January 6, 2013

Anglia 105E Steering Box Top Plate re-inforcement

105E steering boxes, in general, are relatively reliable units and will function properly for years as long as they are kept topped with the correct oil.
Occasionally, the steering box top plate works itself loose due to worn suspension components, unbalanced wheels, or vibration.  Requiring re-tightening of the four top plate bolts. Eventually, the top plate will work loose again causing play in the steering box and steering wheel shimmy around 40 mph. A loose top plate will put stress on the internal components of the steering box.

A permanent solution to this problem would be to weld two 1/8" thick "L" brackets to the top plate and body, as shown.
Remove the top plate ( collect the spilled oil ). Produce two similar "L" shaped brackets. Mount them symmetrically together, clamp, and drill two holes for two 1/4" size head bolts and nuts. Install and tighten. Weld one bracket to the top plate, as shown in the picture. Re-install the top plate to the s/box. Tighten the four top plate bolts. Tap weld the bracket to the body. Remove the 1/4" bolts from the brackets. Remove the top plate. Cover the exposed steering box with a rag and weld the bracket to the body. Apply a bit of Locktite to the top plate bolts threads and install the bolt locking plates if desired but now, not necessary anymore.

This modification especially benefits Anglias still using a steering box for rallying.